DHAKA – Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today said his government has already started implementing the promises his party BNP made to the people before the national election in a gradual manner. “After the formation of the BNP government with the people’s mandate, we have started implementing all the promises made to the people before the election in a gradual manner, Alhamdulillah,” he said.

Tarique Rahman, also the ruling BNP chairman, made the remarks while addressing the inaugural ceremony of the monthly honorariums scheme for imams, muazzins and khadems of mosques, and heads and assistant heads of other religious institutions across the country.

At the event, he opened the programme by pressing the button of IBAS system to send the honorariums to the bank accounts of respective beneficiaries through EFT system under a pilot scheme at a function at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium here.

Highlighting the government’s commitment to eliminating economic disparity by creating employment, the premier said, “We promised the people before the national elections that we all will live well together by eliminating financial inequality by providing financial assistance or creating jobs for people from different classes and professions of society, who are economically disadvantaged. Now we have started implementing them”.

Highlighting several initiatives already undertaken by the government, he said the government has already introduced the ‘Family Card’ programme for economically disadvantaged women, adding that the scheme will gradually cover women across the country.

Tarique Rahman also announced that the ‘Farmer Card’ or ‘Krishok Card’ programme will be launched from April 14, the first day of the Bengali New Year (Pahela Baishakh).

In addition, he said, the government’s canal excavation programme will begin in Dinajpur on March 16.

About the honorarium scheme for religious leaders, the premier said, “From today, the honorarium programme for khatibs, imams, muezzins and religious leaders of other faiths has started. Gradually, everyone who needs this support across the country will be brought under the programme”.

He said that the government will make its utmost efforts, within the capacity of the state, to ensure economic and social security for all citizens regardless of religion, caste or profession.

Highlighting the responsibilities of the citizens, Tarique Rahman said, “If we, as citizens, properly fulfill our responsibilities towards the state and society from our respective positions, I hope that in the next 10 years, we will be able to see a politically and economically self-reliant Bangladesh, In-Sha-Allah”.

Noting that the government wants to build the country on a strong foundation by ensuring the political and economic empowerment of every citizen, he said, “If citizens are kept weak, the state can never be strong”.

“Therefore, we want to establish our country on such a strong foundation by ensuring the political and economic empowerment of every citizen so that no more fascism or the evil forces of subjugation can take away the freedom of the people,” the premier added.

Tarique Rahman called for being imbued with religious, social and moral values, saying, “An economically prosperous state may ensure financial comfort in people’s lives, but without acquiring patience, honesty, gratitude, respect, loyalty, solidarity, tolerance, generosity, friendship, humility, responsibility or kindness, a person cannot become a complete human being”.

“To achieve such human qualities, it is important to be inspired by religious, social and moral values,” he added.
Stating that liberal educational statements of religion are unparalleled in building a safe society free from revenge and violence, the premier said, “I believe that every religion has such positive messages for building a morally rich human society”.

“Therefore, the role of people with religious knowledge like you is very important in creating a mentality rich with religious, social and moral values,” Tarique Rahman added.

After concluding his speech, Tarique Rahman took part in a photo session with beneficiaries on the stage.

LGRD and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir spoke at the function as the guest of honor and Prime Minister’s Adviser for Public Administration and President of the cell formed to implement the honorarium providing programme Md Ismail Zabiullah attended the function as the special guest with Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Houssain (Kaikobad) in the chair.

Secretary of the Religious Affairs Ministry Munshi Alauddin Al Azad delivered the welcome address at the function.

Shaykh-e-Charmonai Mufti Syed Fayzul Karim, Senior Nayeb-e-Ameer of Islami Andolan Bangladesh, Mufti Muhibbullahil Baki, Pesh Imam, Baitul Mukarram National Mosque; Mufti Saiful Islam, Khatib, Dhanmondi Taqwa Mosjid; valiant freedom fighter Uday Sankar Chakraborty, general secretary of Sri Ramakrishna Ashram Kurigram; Dharma Mitra Mahathero, head of the International Buddhist Monastery, Dhaka; and Archbihop Bejoy N D’Cruze, OMI, Archbishop of Dhaka; also spoke at the event.

New York: Focusing on the turbulent March of the 1971 Liberation War, writer and journalist Shibbīr Ahmed has recently released five patriotic songs on YouTube. These songs vividly portray the history of the Liberation War, the leadership of the Father of the Nation, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and the bravery of the Bengali people through music. Shibbīr Ahmed stated that the songs aim to connect the younger generation with the history of 1971 and keep the spirit of independence alive. He said, “The spirit of the Liberation War is not just a memory of the past; it is a source of inspiration for the present and future of the country. Through these songs, I have tried to depict the struggles, scenes, and love for the country during that time.”

The five songs are “Don’t Cry for Me Bangladesh,” “The Thunderous Finger,” “Immortal in the Heart: Bangabandhu,” “Freedom Bought with Blood,” and “Joy Bangla – The Soul of Bangladesh.” Each song focuses on key moments of the Liberation War, highlighting the sacrifices and struggles of the Bengali people.

“Don’t Cry for Me Bangladesh” is dedicated to patriots. During the Liberation War, Pakistani forces destroyed cities and villages, crippling the economy and halting social progress. This song captures those dark times and the courage and dreams of the Bengali people in an emotionally powerful way.

“The Thunderous Finger” symbolizes a resolute voice for independence and resistance against oppressive forces. It reflects the historic 7 March speech of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, which inspired the entire nation to rise for freedom. The song is a musical representation of that courage and determination.

“Immortal in the Heart: Bangabandhu” was composed to honor the Father of the Nation on his birthday. The song reflects his leadership, personality, ideals, and fighting spirit, instilling respect for Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and a sense of responsibility toward the country in listeners.

“Freedom Bought with Blood” narrates the sacrifices and bravery of the martyrs. On the night of 25 March 1971, Pakistani forces began massacring innocent Bengalis. At that critical moment, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman declared the independence of Bangladesh, prompting the Bengali people to take up arms against the Pakistani military. On 26 March 1971, Bangladesh officially emerged on the world map, fulfilling a thousand-year-old dream of the Bengali nation. The song commemorates the history and sacrifices of the martyrs.

“Joy Bangla – The Soul of Bangladesh” expresses the joy of victory and boundless love for the country. The slogan “Joy Bangla” was the rallying cry and the lifeblood of the Liberation War in 1971. Through this slogan, freedom fighters fought against the Pakistani army to achieve victory. “Joy Bangla” is not a personal slogan; it belongs to Bangladesh, to the Liberation War, and to the spirit of independence.

In addition, Shibbīr Ahmed has recently released “The House of History: Dhanmondi 32,” written and composed by him. This song focuses on the historic Dhanmondi 32 residence, which during the Liberation War was the place where women who survived sexual violence found refuge, making it a significant site in Bangladesh’s history. Recently, the house suffered vandalism and destruction. Through this song, Shibbīr Ahmed seeks to preserve history through music, honoring the truth and memory of the past while sending a warning against the destruction of historical heritage.

The music videos for all the songs include historical images of the Liberation War, personal moments of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and scenes depicting the courage of freedom fighters. Viewers can emotionally connect with history through these videos. The songs have already received a warm response on YouTube and have sparked widespread discussion on social media. All songs are available on YouTube at [https://www.youtube.com/@TrishnarGaan].

Shibbīr Ahmed has worked for many years as a journalist, exploring the country’s history, social culture, and cultural movements. Analysts have remarked that his initiative is not just entertainment but a powerful medium to bring the glorious history of Bangladesh’s independence to the younger generation. The songs combine history, patriotism, and the spirit of the Liberation War, encouraging the youth to understand the value of independence and inspiring emotional engagement with the nation’s legacy.

Shibbir Ahmed, New York: Continuing its annual tradition, Graphics World, located in Jackson Heights, New York, has been hosting a month-long Iftar gathering during the holy month of Ramadan. The initiative has been organized by Sakil Mia, owner of Graphics World and president of the Jackson Heights Elakabashi Organization.

Throughout the month of Ramadan, expatriate Bangladeshis along with people from various communities have been gathering there daily to participate in Iftar. Amid the busy life of expatriates, the gathering has turned into a warm social reunion for the community.

Before Iftar each day, guests engage in friendly conversations, exchange greetings, and discuss the significance of Ramadan, creating a sincere and welcoming atmosphere. The Iftar gathering is attended by community leaders, activists, poets, writers, journalists, businesspeople, employees of Graphics World, as well as friends and family members from different walks of life. Many attendees expressed that such gatherings help strengthen brotherhood, harmony, and mutual relationships among expatriate Bangladeshis.

Organizer Sakil Mia said that the holy month of Ramadan is a time for spiritual purification, compassion, and self-restraint. He noted that the annual Iftar gathering is arranged to strengthen bonds among people living abroad and to bring everyone together.

“We want everyone to share the joy of Ramadan together even while living abroad. This Iftar gathering is part of that effort,” he said.

He also mentioned that new guests join the Iftar gathering every day throughout the month, making the event more vibrant. Attendees have also praised the initiative, saying that such gatherings help promote harmony and unity within the Bangladeshi community in the diaspora.

The month-long Iftar program has created a festive atmosphere among expatriate Bangladeshis living in Jackson Heights. The event is supported by Anwar Hossain, Muhammad Mohiuddin, Mohammad Sayem, Abdullah Noman, Amir Hamza, Shyamal, and many others.

Among those present at the Iftar gathering were mainstream leader Fahad Solaiman; writer and journalist Akbar Haider Kiron; children’s writer Humayun Kabir Dhali; Nurul Azim, president of the Elite Club; Lion Ahsan Habib; artist Kamaruzzaman Bokul; Shahidul Islam, editor of Weekly Thikana Barta; Monjur Hossain, publisher of Desh newspaper; editor Mizanur Rahman; Moshiur Rahman Mazumder, news editor and publisher; photojournalist Nihar Siddiqui; Yasin K Joy; Amanat Hossain Aman; Sarwar Babu; Razu Biplob, president of Ruposhi Chandpur Foundation; its general secretary Gazi Sohel; Mohammad Shafi; journalist Abu Nasr; businessman Moinu Chowdhury; Mohammad Saeed, editor of Weekly Probash; and Shibbir Ahmed, chairman of the editorial board of Dewal Patrika and NewsNow, among others.

Commenting on the event, mainstream leader Fahad Solaiman said, “Such gatherings are extremely important to maintain brotherhood and unity among the Bangladeshi community abroad. Sakil Mia’s initiative certainly deserves appreciation.”

Writer and journalist Akbar Haider Kiron said, “This type of Iftar gathering plays an important role in strengthening communication and goodwill among expatriates. It creates a sense of family-like bonding within the community.”

Children’s writer Humayun Kabir Dhali said, “Ramadan teaches us restraint and humanity. Such gatherings give the new generation growing up abroad an opportunity to connect with our culture and religious values.”

Nurul Azim, president of the Elite Club, said, “Such noble initiatives bring people together and deepen mutual relationships. I express my sincere gratitude to the organizers.”

News editor and publisher Moshiur Rahman Mazumder said, “These types of Iftar gatherings play an important role in strengthening communication and goodwill among expatriate Bangladeshis. Ramadan teaches us patience, compassion, and humanity. The month-long Iftar organized at Graphics World is strengthening the spirit of brotherhood and unity within the community.”

The Iftar menu at Graphics World includes dates, chickpeas, puffed rice, onion fritters, jilapi, sherbet, various fruits, chicken nuggets, haleem, mashed mango, tehari, khichuri, meat, and many other traditional dishes.

Among those present and assisting in the organization were Zed Alam Nomi, general secretary of the Jackson Heights Elakabashi Organization; joint conveners Aftab Jony and Shams Jony; Kazi Aminul Islam Swapan; Golam M. Haidar Mukut; Iktaruzzaman Ratan; Ashrafuzzaman Ashraf; coordinator Rafiqul Islam Dalim; Professor Monirul Islam Khan; Mofizur Rahman; BN Badshah; Jibon Shafik; Shawn Babla; Faruk Hossain Mazumder; Nazmul Hossain Babu; A.Z.M. Jahangir; vice president Mohammad Manik Babu; assistant general secretary Mia Mohammad Dulal; chief adviser Mir Nizamul Haque; Marshal Murad; Mazharul Robin; Professor Rafiqul Islam; Namis Ahmed; Maksudul Haque Chowdhury; Mazharul Islam Jony; Mahbubur Rahman Mukul; joint member secretary A.B. Siddiq Patwari; Jahangir Alam Joy; Sheikh Noman Polash; Asadul Islam Asad; Shafiuddin Mia; Khulku Rahman; businessman Rana Ahmed; Anisul Kabir Jasir; Mohammad Khokon; realtor Hasan and many others.

The Iftar gathering organized by Graphics World remains open to everyone. The ongoing month-long event continues to spread the message of harmony, unity, and community spirit among expatriate Bangladeshis during Ramadan.

New York: Toby Ann Stavisky met with members of the Bangladeshi diaspora at a Nabanno Party Iftar gathering in Jackson Heights. The event was organized by the Global Bangladeshi Alliance (GBA), CUDC, and BATC. The meeting was presided over by GBA President Mizanur Rahman, while Administrative Director Ahmed Sohel served as the host of the program.

During the gathering, Senator Stavisky officially announced her candidacy for the upcoming New York State Senate election, with the primary election scheduled for June 21. Addressing the audience, she asked members of the Bangladeshi-American community for their support and cooperation in the upcoming election.

The event was attended by a large number of Bangladeshi community leaders, activists, and journalists from across New York. Many participants expressed their appreciation for the senator’s continued engagement with the Bangladeshi community and assured her of their support in the upcoming election.

Senator Stavisky thanked the community for their warm reception and recognized the important role Bangladeshi-Americans play in the social, cultural, and political life of New York.

DHAKA – Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is set to inaugurate a programme for providing monthly honorarium to religious leaders of different religions tomorrow. The inauguration ceremony will be held at 10:00am at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital, according to an official release of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

Under the programme, monthly honorariums will be provided to imams, muezzins and khadems of mosques, priests and sebaits of temples, principals and vice-principals of Buddhist monasteries, and priests and assistant priests of churches. The Prime Minister will formally launch the initiative at the ceremony.

DHAKA  – Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today visited his political adviser and BNP Standing Committee Member Mirza Abbas Uddin Ahmed, who is currently undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in the city.

“The premier reached the hospital at 2:20 pm. He spent some time beside Mirza Abbas’s bed and inquired about his overall health condition,” Prime Minister’s Press Secretary Saleh Shibly told BSS this afternoon.

During the visit, he said, the Prime Minister instructed the concerned authorities to take swift measures for Mirza Abbas’s treatment in Singapore. Afroza Abbas, wife of Mirza Abbas and President of the Jatiyatabadi Mohila Dal, and concerned physicians were present during the visit.

Earlier in the day, the BNP said that an air ambulance from Evercare Hospital would carry Mirza Abbas to Singapore at 6:00 pm today for advanced treatment. He is expected to be admitted to the Department of Neuroscience at the National University Hospital in Singapore.

Mirza Abbas fell ill suddenly on Wednesday evening while drinking water during iftar and lost consciousness. As his condition did not improve, he was admitted to Evercare Hospital late that night. Afroza Abbas sought prayers from the people of the country for her husband’s speedy recovery.

DHAKA – Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Iqbal Hassan Mahmood has arrived in Tokyo to participate in the Indo-Pacific Energy Security Ministerial and Business Forum being held on March 14-15.

The forum is jointly hosted by the chair and vice chair of the US National Energy Dominance Council, US Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, US Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, and Japan’s Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Akazawa Ryosei.

Energy ministers and senior representatives from several Indo-Pacific countries including Australia, Brunei, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, the Republic of Korea, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Vietnam are also attending the two-day forum.

During the meeting, participating ministers will discuss ways to strengthen energy security across the Indo-Pacific region, with a focus on ensuring the supply of abundant, reliable, affordable, secure and dispatchable energy.

On the sidelines of the forum, Iqbal Hassan Mahmood is expected to hold bilateral meetings with ministers and other delegations from participating countries, including the United States, Japan and Brunei. He is also scheduled to meet representatives of private sector companies to explore opportunities for enhanced cooperation with Bangladesh in the energy sector and related sectors.

DHAKA – Five Bangladeshi migrant workers were killed and two others seriously injured in a fire that broke out early Thursday on Dhigurah Island in the Maldives, the Bangladesh High Commission in Malé said. The deceased were identified as Taj Uddin Islam, Md Sadar Ali, Md Robin Molla, Shafiqul Islam and Md Nurnabi Sarkar.

According to the Bangladesh High Commission, two other Bangladeshi workers—Jamal Uddin and Saddam Hossain—sustained serious injuries in the incident. They are currently undergoing treatment at the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital in Malé.

The High Commission said it is closely monitoring the situation and has taken necessary steps to facilitate the early repatriation of the bodies of the deceased to Bangladesh. Diplomatic officials are also maintaining contact with the relevant authorities in the Maldives regarding the incident.

WASHINGTON – US President Donald Trump said Friday that Iran has been “totally defeated” in the US-Israeli military campaign against the country and wanted a deal he would not accept, despite Iranian officials pledging to continue the fight.

“The Fake News Media hates to report how well the United States Military has done against Iran, which is totally defeated and wants a deal – But not a deal that I would accept!” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, without elaborating.

Trump’s comments came after he said that Washington had heavily bombed military targets on Iran’s oil hub Kharg Island and the US Navy would soon begin escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz.

But as the US strikes on Iran persisted, Tehran launched a new wave of drone and missile attacks on Israel and its Gulf neighbours.

Meanwhile, several top Iranian officials joined a defiant pro-government rally in Tehran on Friday, marching alongside demonstrators waving banners reading “Death to America” and “Death to Israel.”

Iran’s top diplomat said this week that talks remain off the table and attacks would continue for as long as necessary.

“I don’t think talking with the Americans would be on our agenda anymore,” Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told PBS News this week, adding Tehran had a “very bitter experience” during previous negotiations with the US.

New York: The annual Iftar and prayer gathering organized by the Jamaica Bangladesh Friends Society, one of the well-known social organizations in New York, was successfully held amid the participation of the Muslim community, mainstream politicians, elected officials, prominent non-Muslim leaders, and members of the Bangladeshi diaspora.

The event, titled “Annual Community Iftar,” marked its 23rd edition this year. Among the distinguished attendees were one of the most influential members of the U.S. Congress, Congresswoman Grace Meng, along with representatives from the New York City Mayor’s Office, the Queens Borough President’s Office, the Queens District Office, media editors, senior journalists, and many notable community leaders.

According to the organizers, more than 350 guests attended the event, which was held on Friday evening, February 27, at Sirajee Kabab House in Fresh Meadows, New York, turning the gathering into a vibrant community reunion.

In a solemn and spiritual atmosphere, guests were welcomed by the founder and president of the organization, Fakhrul Islam Delwar, who is also the Secretary of the Jamaica Muslim Center (JMC), along with Friends Society General Secretary Enayet Munshi, members of the organizing committee, and executive committee officials.

The program began with a recitation from the Holy Quran by Hafiz Adel Siddique. This was followed by a discussion on the significance of the holy month of Ramadan by Imam Hasan Akbar. A special prayer (dua) was later conducted by Maulana Mirza Abu Zafar Beg, Khatib and Imam of the Jamaica Muslim Center.

Before and after the Iftar, brief remarks were delivered by several distinguished guests including prominent businessman Lion Shah Newaz, chairman of Shah Newaz Group; Dr. Nazmul H. Khan, President of the JMC Management Committee; Ataur Rahman Selim, President of the Bangladesh Society; Engineer Mohammad Sadeq, representative of the Queens Borough President; Roza, representative of the New York City Health Department; Rokeya Akter, representative of the Queens District Office; local police precinct commander Black Lorten; Dr. Dilip Kumar G, Secretary General of the UN Religious Committee; Rachana Ghosh, President of the Sri Chinmoy Center; ABM Osman Gani, Chief Advisor of the Friends Society; Professor Shahadat Hossain, advisor; AFM Misbahuzzaman, Senior Vice President; former president Bilal Chowdhury; Akib Hossain of Meadowbrook Mortgage; Dr. Evan Khan, CEO of Khan’s Tutorial; Raj Goel, candidate for New York State Comptroller; Mohammad Molla, candidate for the upcoming election in New York State Assembly District 32; Mahtab Khan, candidate for State Assembly District 24; and Abdul Matin, Senior Vice President of Pabna Welfare Association USA, among others.

A Hamd and Naat performance were presented by the younger generation artist Ridwana Rahman Rahi. The program was jointly hosted by Mohammad Shahidullah, Convener of the Annual Community Iftar Committee, Ismail Hossain Swapan, Member Secretary, and Enayet Munshi, General Secretary of the Friends Society. In her speech, Congresswoman Grace Meng strongly criticized former President Donald Trump’s immigration policies and highly praised the contributions and activities of the Bangladeshi community, particularly the Jamaica Bangladesh Friends Society.

Among the media representatives present were Nazmul Ahsan, Editor of Weekly Porichoy; Mizanur Rahman, Editor of Weekly Desh; ABM Salahuddin Ahmed, Editor of Weekly Haqkotha, UN News Agency and Ajker Telegram; Shahidul Islam, News Editor of Weekly Thikana; Belal Ahmed, Editor of Gemini Magazine; journalist SM Solaiman and photojournalist Nihar Siddiqui.

Other notable attendees included Pir Shah Mohammad Saifullah Siddiq of Charmonai, Mohiuddin Dewan, Senior Vice President of Bangladesh Society; Kamruzzaman Kamrul, Vice President; Mohammad Ali, General Secretary; Trustee Board member Ahsan Habib; former General Secretary Ruhul Amin Siddiqui; former official Nurul Haque; Friends Society advisors Saleh Ahmed, Rezaul Karim Chowdhury, and Professor Husne Ara Begum; Rabbi Syed, General Secretary of Jamaica Bangladeshi Association (JBA); Rokon Hakim, Acting General Secretary of Jalalabad Association of America; Rokon, CEO of Raju Law Firm; Omar Bin, head of Ethinal Home Care; Fazlur Rahman of Al Harmain Group; Abdul Mannan, Director of Reliable Home Care; prominent businessman Kazi Helal; and real estate investor Nurul Azim, among others.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Friends Society President Fakhrul Islam Delwar. The successful organization of the event was supported by Co-Convener Muhammad Kamrul Islam Soni, Coordinator J. Molla Sani, Akhtar Babul, Naushad Haidar, Sharif Hossain, Joint Member Secretaries Himu Mia, Saidul Islam, Iqbal Ahmed, and Mohin Uddin Patowary, as well as executive member Riju Mohammad.